Chapter 3 An assessment of policies

Abstract

The macroeconomic policy that prevails in Ceara has been formulated in the “Sustainable Development Plan for Ceara, Brazil, 1995–1998” (see Governo do Estado do Ceara, 1995), and relates both to macroeconomic variables and to regional aspects. Policy measures cover five main vectors. The first one concerns the conservation of nature, specifically state forestation and reforestation, and mainly the fundamental issues of water management: irrigation, basic sanitation, maximizing supply, etc. The second vector addresses the issue of spatial reordering: measures to decrease excessive concentration including regionalized government action, promotion of interior development, redistribution of transportation, energy and communication infrastructures, geological and economic zoning, and urban development programs. The third vector relates to human resource development, and sets targets of universal basic education and education for all, promotion of health, promotion of mature political practices, participatory processes, and fighting poverty. The fourth vector relates to employment generation and economically sustainable development. Relevant strategies address each economic sector. The agricultural sector is supported through utilizing the potential of irrigable land through the development of agro-industrial activities and through the reorganization of the rural economy. Regarding the industrial sector, ventures in the interior of the state are also promoted. The sector of services is promoted through the stimulation of tourism along the coast and in the interior. The fifth and last vector relates to the development of science, technology, and innovation. This is accomplished through the increase of the existing capacity of high-level education in science and technology. Specific programs include generation, diffusion, and innovation oriented by demand, university–industry–society integration, and promotion of centers of excellence.

Citation

Bar-El, R. (2008), "Chapter 3 An assessment of policies", Bar-El, R. (Ed.) Regional Development and Conflict Management: A Case for Brazil (Contributions to Conflict Management, Peace Economics and Development, Vol. 8), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 41-51. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1572-8323(08)08003-X